2012 Honda sporting presentation in Tokyo

Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa were in attendance at Honda Racing's 2012 presentation in Tokyo on Friday, February 3rd, representing MotoGP™ at the prestigious factory's annual event.

The Japanese factory's annual presentation of their sporting line up was held last week at headquarters of Honda Motor Company in Tokyo, where the company introduced their national and international motorsport activities. In attendance were the Repsol Honda riders, who made an appearance on stage at the presentation and spoke individually about the 2012 season.

World Champion Casey Stoner is set to defend his crown this year, after winning the title his first year with factory Honda in what was a dream season for the Australian. His prospects for this year are bright after a strong start to the season, which Stoner acknowledged, saying: "With the new 1000cc we have had a great start to the season and if we can be competitive, then we have every chance to win." He then went on to play down any assurance that the title would again land in his hands, stating "I hope we can do everything right again this year, but we must not get too far ahead."

Dani Pedrosa commented on his physical condition, which at this time last year was compromised following a shoulder operation, saying "it’s been a long time since I have been touched by any surgeon, so I am feeling good." Regarding his preparation for the season Pedrosa said "now I can sleep and train well, so far it’s been good, and I hope it can continue like this."

Honda Motor Company President and CEO Takanobu Ito spoke about the objectives for the 2012 season, referencing his accuracy regarding the success of 2011. "Last year at this time I declared we would recapture the World title. We won three titles: Rider, Team and Constructors’. This season, with the new 1000cc engine capacity we aim to achieve three titles again."